living simply

Located in Canada on the shores of Lake Memphremagog and designed by Montréal-based firm acdf*, the first thing that drew me to this house was the simple yet stunning timber staircase. The ribbon of perfectly stained woods cuts faultlessly through the stark monochromatic interior and provides the perfect anchor for the grand piano. This starkness continues throughout the house, and indeed with the architecture, and is the result of one of the guiding principles the client wanted the house built around – namely that this be a house that returns to a more simple way of living. That means no complex computer systems, air conditioning or equipment is installed. Simple living, connected with the surrounding landscape.

One other major factor in the design was the kitchen – these are clients that love to cook and come together to eat a meal. This space, though large, is simple and relax and certainly not a “show kitchen.” Off the kitchen is a large dining table, which sits under a double height ceiling void and has views across the site to the lake. Externally, the house is clad in hemlock wood which is local to the area. Over time, the wood will be allowed to age to a soft silver to blend the house into the landscape surrounding.

I love that this house shows that the simple way of life does not have to mean there is any compromise on design or quality, and if this were my house it would happily be the simple life for me!

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

Lake Memphremagog house / acdf*

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